NPHAF left a comment on 7/23/2011 at 4:47 PM:

It’s funny how I can’t seem to find the Nylites in the stores, though I am from Sweden. My search will continue…

ifyouwantsomethingdone left a comment on 7/19/2011 at 4:03 AM:

i wear my paint clothes out all the time, and get it confused as desighner. i love the idea of art tranfer from medium to medium. Nice pairings between accessories and the overall attitude. :D

cam left a comment on 7/15/2011 at 12:26 PM:

@Joe….rugby.com

Emily left a comment on 7/15/2011 at 9:48 AM:

Great picture! I love the stripes on the shirt! The facial expression is also priceless.

-Emily (urbanadventurer.com/blog)

txsailorboy left a comment on 7/15/2011 at 12:16 AM:

To Daniel FEC would never tell you this, but in a high school of about 1000 students, one year he won 1st and 2nd place in the annual art show.  “Jeans” from his grandpa who was a bronze sculptor and his great grandpa (circa 1880) who was a photographer in the early 1900’s.  It;s quite a treat to watch the development.

Joe left a comment on 7/14/2011 at 7:18 PM:

Where’s a good place to find a nice pair of slim-fitting khakis?

Glenn Elliott left a comment on 7/14/2011 at 1:14 PM:

Great look Fred, especially that you created the pants.  Not a huge fan of off the shelf painters I was conflicted between Tretorns and Spring Court this Spring and went with the SC’s.  I thought I was satisfied but those Tretorn’s look good.

J left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 7:51 PM:

Ah! my sweetie has “painter’s khakis” but they got that way by painting! your take is one part prep and one part Clash (as created by the delish Paul Simonon). FUN!!

Sam Dunning left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 5:57 PM:

It’s a good look.

PJOM left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 3:07 PM:

Everything about this (especially the chinos) is outstanding Fred.  Don’t entertain the thought of anything less!

GLG left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 12:56 PM:

@FEC Sounds great.  I think I might try a similar idea, but instead of painting the pants themselves, just wear them while painting for a while - I need some practice with oils anyways.

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 12:51 PM:

@GLG—Indeed they can. Oil paint doesn’t wash out. Turn pants inside out and wash in cold water. Hang dry.

GLG left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 12:48 PM:

This is a killer shot Fred - it lacks all of the boring conservative elements of prep fashion and replaces them with a right-brain creative zaniness.  Just one question though - can these pants survive the wash?

David ( from England ) left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 11:33 AM:

Hi Josh,
Yes I like the style and have done for years, and funny enough my daughter has it in her “jeans” too and has been working at Ralph Lauren recently.

Josh (Preposity.com) left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 10:41 AM:

Great to see some classic European brands featured, both St James of France and Tretorn of Sweden. lovely.

I have painted in Oils since art school and have an old pair of trousers shirt for painting in, I can’t say they’re in quite such an artful state though.

Hi David (From England), I’m also from England, nice to see some English preps around.

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 10:02 AM:

@DAM—I wear them on the weekends with a polo, this Saint James tee, a blazer, an oxford…with whatever.  These are not for everyone…these are not safe if you dress to be invisible, unnoticeable, or seek to deflect attention from yourself.  Me, on the other hand, I like to make people look and then think about themselves.  This is an expression of who I am as a creative.  Not that it matters to me, but I get compliments in these…plenty.

DAM left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 9:48 AM:

I get the look and the idea of building a character for the sake of this shoot. And can appreciate the overall styling.

But tell me, where and how would you wear this pants outside of this unique situation?

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 8:27 AM:

@GD—Purcells and Nylites are both certainly viable canvas sneaker options (both of which I wear) but I lace up my Nylites more often because they aren’t on American pop culture’s radar as much.

AEV left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 8:13 AM:

@GD - Original Stan Smiths.

GD left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 8:08 AM:

Jack Purcell’s OR Tretorns? That is the question.

David ( from England ) left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 8:05 AM:

Thank you for the feed back Fred, I wonder how many other people from the UK follow your blog ? It would be fun to see some photos of your apartment when you get round to it. Cheers.

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 4:11 AM:

@Peter—The paint is oil.

@David (from England)—I am a fashion creative with a heavy emphasis on photography and writing as of late. I live in an apartment in Dallas/Ft. Worth built in 1920.  It’s interior is a reflection not only of the content making up Unabashedly Prep but more importantly, my personal style. As always, it’s a work in progress.  Maybe eventually I will photograph it.

Peter left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 3:43 AM:

Great pic. What kind of paint did you use?

David ( from England ) left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 2:29 AM:

Hiya Fred, a couple of things I would like to ask if I may, As I am newish to your blog I don’t know what you do for a living but would be intersted to know and secondly as a great people watcher when I see people that dress well I often wonder where they live and what their houses/apartments look like have you ever posted any pictures of your home ? It would be fun to see what style you have. Thanks

Christian Bourasseau left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 1:22 AM:

Awesome picture Fred. You are Style!

Laguna Beach Fogey left a comment on 7/13/2011 at 12:16 AM:

FEC: “I’m thinking like a fashion designer her…thinking aspirationally…creating a character…ultimately, having fun with it.”

Exactly. And that’s why you’re going to make it and outlast the others who lack your vision. Well done, ol’ chap.

http://admiralcod.blogspot.com/

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 11:19 PM:

@Sleeve Length—Let’s be clear: J.Crew doesn’t have a version of the St. James tee, they simply stock them. That being said, it is long sleeved; although, the sleeve still falls shy of your wrist though…by design.

Sleeve Length left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 11:15 PM:

Is the J Crew version of the St. James tee 3/4th sleeve or full length sleeve?

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 11:09 PM:

@Bing G.—The belt is from Polo and the khakis are Gant by Michael Bastian.

Bing G. left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 11:00 PM:

Great look all around - where did you pick up the belt from? And the khakis are fantastic.

Hunter left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 10:44 PM:

@Mr. Castleberry, thanks a lot and I agree love the Tretorns I have had a pair for a long time and they need replacing but they have lost that glaring white they started out, and I am not looking forward to wearing another pair in.

Hunter left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 7:53 PM:

FEC or anyone who owns one,  how is the fit on the Saint James tee?  I saw an earlier comment about the size but didn’t see a response.  Just trying to get an idea on what size to order, used to have one but don’t remember the sizing.

Defying the Current left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 7:10 PM:

Oh Mr. Castleberry…fantastic shot!!!!

I believe you may have started something. I’m bringing out my dusty fabric paints, unused since the early 90’s and taking to make khakis. I’m certain to be the only one in all of D.C. with this look. The “navy suits” will love me! Thank you!!

-J. Flores

Laguna Beach Fogey left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 5:44 PM:

Lookin’ good, sailor!

Joey Dee left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 5:24 PM:

Whats lacking from this post is a vespa and a roman holiday! Great inspiration, love the fact that you painted the pants yourself, not sure I could pull it off, but is inspiring. If this shot was black and white, i would be hard to pinpoint a timeperiod .

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 5:12 PM:

@Daniel—Art (of all media, including oil) has had a significant place throughout my childhood.

Daniel left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 5:09 PM:

Do you paint? (Other than on your pants)

bimmer left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 3:05 PM:

Cool shot Fred.

Kory left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 2:34 PM:

How is the fit for the Saint James? Thinking of ordering one for myself.

Paul left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 1:25 PM:

One of your best shots ever. Love the Tretorns. The painted pants remind me of some of the excellent hand “paint-splattered” t-shirts by Rogues Gallery.

Andy M. left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 12:54 PM:

Great photo.  I initially doubted the “prep-ness” of the painter’s khaki but I like the Warhol tie-in. 

I may need to pick up a Saint James tee soon.

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 12:21 PM:

@AEV—Further explanation will be provided later in the week but in short, this is an aspirational look inspired by the likes of Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, and Pablo Picasso.  Pollock spent summers in East Hampton painting in a converted barn—this is what I imagined a pair of his chinos looking like at the end of a summer. The bandana, well, that’s to wipe the summer sweat from your forehead, of course.

AEV left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 12:14 PM:

Interesting shot for sure. What are “painter’s khakis”? Will you please explain the red bandana in your rear pocket?

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 11:47 AM:

@alyriclifestyle—Thank you. I painted the khakis myself.

Tito left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 11:46 AM:

This is a cool shot!
I was skeptical about getting pair of Tretorns, but know you convince me…

alyriclifestyle left a comment on 7/12/2011 at 11:42 AM:

Great pic. Can never go wrong with a Saint James tee. Are you responsible for enhancing the khaki?

J.Miller left a comment on 12/26/2011 at 7:52 PM:

I did not get that one.But i did treat myself to this one
“Bill of Rites for The American Man"Many thanks for the superb blog.

Amy left a comment on 12/26/2011 at 5:14 PM:

I got this for Christmas from my boyfriend and I can’t put it down! I love it!! Such a wonderful book.

Laura left a comment on 7/29/2011 at 4:36 PM:

I have this book and absolutely love it! When I feel like I’m in a fashion rut, I pull this out for instant inspiration.

Heather left a comment on 7/22/2011 at 12:35 PM:

Just ordered it. Thank you!

Raquel left a comment on 6/29/2011 at 10:51 PM:

I will definitely be checking this book out!

Amanda left a comment on 6/28/2011 at 2:25 PM:

This looks like a must read!

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 7/10/2011 at 10:32 AM:

@Andy—I haven’t really had to get into too much restoration yet as I bought it in fairly good condition (for a 1987 model).  It only had 106,000 miles on it and now only has 115,000.

Andy left a comment on 7/10/2011 at 10:29 AM:

Have you had trouble maintining/restoring your BMW, either engine, carriage or interior?  How many miles are on it now?

Manuel left a comment on 6/25/2011 at 3:47 AM:

You are looking for inspiration? Try this: www.http://lord-of-hahn.tumblr.com/archive
Hope you’ll get what you are looking for

JABL left a comment on 6/22/2011 at 7:49 PM:

Already following you Mr Castleberry, so much inspiration, I hope I can inspire others too, with a London take on Ivy. Summer seems the perfect time to draw inspiration.
follow me at preposity.tumblr.com – currently covering Wimbledon style

Luis Alcaraz left a comment on 6/22/2011 at 2:57 PM:

Very very cool!! I going to enjoy it!!

DJ Joe Dubb left a comment on 6/21/2011 at 9:14 PM:

FEC- as always, I love this. Keep up the good work and follow me on Tumblr at straymorningthoughts.tumblr.com

Robin- I’ll check out your tumblr as well!

Robin left a comment on 6/21/2011 at 6:59 PM:

FEC - follow me on tumblr at ROBLN.com. :)

Joey Dee left a comment on 6/21/2011 at 6:21 PM:

Great stuff. Love the underwater shot colors, and lemons quote !

RCN left a comment on 6/21/2011 at 3:51 PM:

Very cool FEC!

Victoria left a comment on 6/15/2011 at 11:02 PM:

These are amazing and exactly what my boyfriend requested for his birthday. Thanks

Richard Ross left a comment on 6/15/2011 at 1:26 AM:

Navy Beefroll Loafer - Size 14.

—oh, is this not a contest? ...bummer.

Tyler P. left a comment on 6/14/2011 at 8:48 PM:

For all those who don’t know what you would pair this with, ...how? Navy is one of the easiest colors to work with, especially one as dark as this. Some tan or white chinos with a navy or burgundy polo and navy ribbon belt. It’s pretty easy…

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 6/14/2011 at 7:14 PM:

@Chris S.—This season, I wear a 9.5 in Sperrys. Last season, I wore a 10 in their shoes. They are running big this season.

Chris S left a comment on 6/14/2011 at 7:05 PM:

@FEC what size do you wear in Sperrys (for sockless comparison’s sake)

dandyThonna left a comment on 6/14/2011 at 1:38 PM:

I just sent this post to a bunch of my friends as I agree with most of what you’re saying here and the way you’ve presented it is awesome.

j left a comment on 6/14/2011 at 1:37 PM:

I own two pairs of Oak Street penny loafers - the brown ones and the double-soled navy pair from the fall. They run large, and they do stretch; if I were ordering again, I’d go down a full size (though your mileage may vary). Mine have turned out perfectly fine with some tongue and heel pads. The quality is impeccable, and the white stitching becomes far less vivid over time.

bucephalus left a comment on 6/14/2011 at 10:05 AM:

I don’t know what is wrong with navy or even true-blue shoes.  Even Edward Green makes a pair every now and then.

Jeremiah left a comment on 6/14/2011 at 8:55 AM:

Fully endorse Oak Street Bootmakers footwear. I have a couple pairs and couldn’t be happier with them.

Jeff left a comment on 6/14/2011 at 7:40 AM:

Darian/ Eric - my experience with Oak Street is that they run just a touch on the large side.  On top of that, the leathers are so soft and supple that there is a little stretch after the break in period.  Maybe try 1/2 size down from your normal size (particularly if you’re going to be wearing the loafer sans socks).

Darian left a comment on 6/14/2011 at 7:12 AM:

Great looking shoe, and a nice story of a craft staying in the family.  Any sizing recommendations?  I see a pair in my near future.

JRS left a comment on 6/14/2011 at 7:07 AM:

Those look outstanding.  I’ve been eying the brown ones for a while…

Erik C. Nelson left a comment on 6/14/2011 at 6:50 AM:

Good looking shoe.  I have been wearing my Sebago navy penny loafer (w/ 1943 steel pennies) for a couple years, but they no longer make the navy.  These look almost identical, except that they look more high-end.  Anyone know about the sizing?

Duckboot left a comment on 5/13/2012 at 8:01 AM:

Cruising old blog posts on a lazy weekend morning ... After I graduated I spent 2 years on the Carolina coast, driving my 86 528e with dogs, bikes, and surfboards. I miss those days.

Scott left a comment on 4/2/2012 at 1:54 PM:

Socks?  WTF for?  I live in Boca and dont wear socks to Court - Judges never flinch.

Phillip left a comment on 3/24/2012 at 11:59 AM:

I wholeheartedly agree. My sock drawer is full of argyles and stripes but living in Cali, they rarely see the light of day. I love being a preppy rebel!

Josh left a comment on 10/1/2011 at 4:34 PM:

Where are your pants from? Im looking for a good green pair.

chris left a comment on 7/16/2011 at 8:19 PM:

Loose the socks gain some style, and let the ankles breath.

Markus DeVall left a comment on 7/8/2011 at 11:51 PM:

Have you ever considered making “Outfit of the Day” an addition to your blog? I’m sure your readers will enjoy seeing what outfits you wear for occasions. My other question is have you ever visited Austin, TX and what do you think of the style there?

P.S. Using the letter to submit comments is incredibly innovative.

Poser left a comment on 7/5/2011 at 11:33 AM:

First time commenter, long time reader ;)

I simply hate socks.  I am inspired by your words sir.  Now I have a reason to ditch them :)

Pat left a comment on 6/16/2011 at 2:54 PM:

Awesome post Fred, might be my favorite on this blog.  Great car too, I’m also a BMW enthusiast.

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 6/11/2011 at 10:20 AM:

@Miguel Ramalhão—Yes, this is my ‘87 Bimmer. I really enjoy it.

@Laguna Beach Fogey—Yes, you can quote me.

@Tito—I don’t typically sweat much throughout the day unless I’m working out.  In the case of stains on my shirts, I pre-treat them before washing them (ie ring around the collar).

@AEV—In this particular case, Alden over Gucci because I found the Aldens near new for a good price.

Miguel Ramalhão left a comment on 6/11/2011 at 10:00 AM:

Is this your bemmer??? Uau!!!!! Beautiful!!!! I love these 80’s BMW’s… I’m thinking about buying a 635csi…

bprescott left a comment on 6/9/2011 at 7:02 PM:

RE: uniforms….what prep school did you attend, F.E.?

MarkJ left a comment on 6/9/2011 at 8:56 AM:

I like the look.

Laguna Beach Fogey left a comment on 6/8/2011 at 8:30 PM:

Awesome! Love everything about this pic.

I rarely wear socks outside of the office. In fact I’m wearing a pair of Crockett & Jones chisel-toed beechnut penny loafers as I dictate this.

“Ankles are the go-to-hell sock.” ~ FEC

Can I quote you?

http://admiralcod.blogspot.com/

PERCY STEINHART left a comment on 6/8/2011 at 5:28 PM:

WE DONT WEAR SOCKS…NEVER DID…only in the dead of winter….

Tad Allagash left a comment on 6/8/2011 at 5:18 PM:

@AEV - completely agree, Gucci loafers have a higher vamp and look much nicer. Easy to spot the Alden or Cole Haan knockoffs from 10 paces. Trads will tell you Italian shoes aren’t as well made but that’s bs in my experience.

D Kinlaw left a comment on 6/8/2011 at 3:02 PM:

My thought process is very simple…65 degrees and above the ankles will be out. in South Carolina thats 2/3 of the year.

C. Wolf left a comment on 6/8/2011 at 12:07 PM:

Fantastic article.  I agree whole heartedly.  Socks are too often over rated and this is a great look that can make a statement as bold or subtle as desired by the wearer.

My father, a life-long prep and president of his company, often sported the sockless look in the professional world.  Not only was he was complimented on his style, but because the rest of his attire was always well tailored and pressed, he never looked out of place or too informal at a business meeting or conference.

This is a look that I have totally embraced and absolutely love.  So save the socks for the ski slope and the stable.  On all other occasions, say hello to ankles!

RCN left a comment on 6/8/2011 at 10:49 AM:

Great blog FEC… My father would never win any father of the year awards, but one thing I liked he never work socks and I always loved the look so I’ve always done it. I’m still amazed even living in the south how uncommon it is to go sockless. I think style and certain tastes are all individualistic, sure there are influences which I think we should all embrace, but at the end of the day it’s what makes you feel good and in your eyes look good. One question, can you recommend a loafer sock? I’ve tried several brands and haven’t liked any of them. I’m often on my feet for long periods of time in very warm climates and I’d like to find a good loafer sock to have when needed.

Christian Bourasseau left a comment on 6/8/2011 at 8:53 AM:

Lovely look. I like every detail in this picture :)

Brohammas left a comment on 6/8/2011 at 8:52 AM:

While I regularly forego socks, its a look I like, I find it interestingthat no socks with pants says I don’t care what you think, quite often socks worn with shorts says , I don’t have a clue.
Such messages sent by such subtle things.

Harvey Lindsay left a comment on 6/8/2011 at 4:34 AM:

http://harveylindsay7.blogspot.com/

Lara left a comment on 6/8/2011 at 3:42 AM:

Is it just my imagination or are you likening the wearing of socks to the process of conformity within cognitive psychology? I’m impressed.

Justin left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 11:18 PM:

This is sort of off topic, but Making the Grade was shot at my college.  It was called Southwestern College back then, but now it’s called Rhodes.  Half my classes are in the building they used for the dorms.

Ryan S left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 9:57 PM:

Brilliantly written Mr. FE Castleberry.  Agreed.  Agreed.  Agreed.  I rather enjoy my notoriety among my peers as the sockless man.  The green “show me the money” pants are a fav in my wardrobe as well, especially with some ankle.  I’ll toast to that!

Tito left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 8:29 PM:

Hi Fred, I’ve noticed on a comment that you don’t wear undershirts, I’ve tried that technique a few times and doesn’t feel right though.
Not only that but the perspiration messed up a few of my woven do to deodorant and sweat. so I was wandering how do you take care of it without getting your woven stained?

Zach left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 8:21 PM:

I find sockless for me only works for my plimsols, loafers and sometimes, chukkas. I just could never pull it off with my captoes or wingtips. Just too much sweating, and discomfort. Must be my Irish feet.

Kenneth left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 7:54 PM:

A few weeks back, a VP at my company noticed I had no socks with a suit and he said to everyone in the room, “Now there is a guy that can do business and party!” An accurate description I thought.

I’ve gone sockless for years (except for weddings and job interviews) I’ve done it mainly out of laziness, or maybe I grew up as a southern prep and did it subconsciously? Who knows. Coming off of the tennis courts growing up the last thing you wanted on were socks. I think the laziness of it supports the go-to-hell aesthetic.

@FEC Cheers for a great article I read it a few days Of Rogues & Gentlemen

SSI left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 7:35 PM:

Bit loafers are definitely not prep justified anymore in my opinion.  Over saturation will kill take anything out of that classification.  Tassels on the other hand ...

AEV left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 7:06 PM:

Great warm weather look Fred. Why Aldens and not Guccis? I always thought the Aldens were oddly low cut (and struck me as copying the Guccis…for essentially the same price).

KGC left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 6:35 PM:

Love the look. I personally despise wearing socks with Sperrys, even if it’s 30 degrees in the morning and I’m at rowing practice. My teammates always ask if my feet are cold.

Pink Socks left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 6:30 PM:

I go sockless with certain shoes (drivers, decks, sneakers) even in winter. Then again I am in Australia (but it does get cold here in Melbourne). The right shoes always work sockless.

www.linenforsummertweedforwinter.tumblr.com

Richard Ross left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 4:57 PM:

My only burrial instruction is that I be burried sockless.

CC left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 3:15 PM:

Fred, what’s your take on rolling your pants as opposed to having them hemmed above the ankle?  I find that rolling them gives them more versatility, i.e. you can let them down if you so choose.

Jon left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 3:04 PM:

Coastal southerners love to rock the no-sock.  Especially with loafers and boat shoes of course.  I’m slowly trying to expand to oxfords.

G.S.O left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 1:20 PM:

Chilly spring in London making my ankles cold !

Niles left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 1:09 PM:

the nonchalant and “I don’t give a damn” attitude is really about the whole package though…ditching the socks is part of it. driving an old luxury car could be another…..however, it could be said that an obsession with tailoring goes against this attitude a little.

Thad left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 1:08 PM:

Do you keep shoe trees in your topsiders (serious question) ?

Luis Alcaraz left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 12:31 PM:

Fred, you look very cool I am wearing the same outfit plust the socks for work today. Sock or sockless is a nice look and I think we should give a little resect to certain occasion I dont want that you finish like Mark Zuckerberg wearing sandals everywhere.

Regards!

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 11:52 AM:

@Alfonso—I personally do not wear undershirts…ever.  They shift, add bulk, come untucked…and they peek out every now and then.  If you choose to wear one, just make sure it’s never seen.  If that means a deep v-neck, A-line, etc, so be it.  My stance, for the record, is to ditch the undershirt, especially with a polo.

Alfonso left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 11:44 AM:

Fred, thanks for a great piece, and you look wonderful, as always. The picture brings up an unrelated question—do you ever allow a T-shirt to show from under your polo or button-down shirt? I’ve seen this done and can’t decide what I think about it.

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 11:24 AM:

@Paul—I’m 5’11” and I wear a 29.5” inseam.  You will not be able to get away with a 30” inseam and avoid a break.  Before you buy your next pair of pants, take that money to the tailor.  It’s about $14 a pair to take them up.

Angel left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 11:24 AM:

I don’t mind showing my ankles in the warmer months but once winter comes I pull out my socks, mostly solid colors that are bright. Though I wouldn’t consider myself a prep so I guess I don’t mind breaking the bare ankle rule that you promote.

Angels Point of View - Street Fashion Photography

Paul left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 11:21 AM:

...One other question. I’m a shorter man, 5’-7”, and I typically wear a 30” inseam…and even that produces a break. Any suggestions as to how to get that “just slightly too short” look to work without having all my pants hemmed?

tlfactor left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 10:29 AM:

FEC, are these the Rugby chino pants from this year?  I like the color.

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 10:22 AM:

@Cam—I’m not sure where you are from but wherever I go (and I travel quite a bit) I am typically one of the only guys not wearing socks.  You may read about it in men’s fashion magazines or see it on style blogs…but the reality is that most men still don’t do it.

cam left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 10:11 AM:

i go sockless a lot myself but i disagree that wearing socks is deliberately thoughtful…in fact going SOCKLESS would be what is deliberately thoughtful…and more and more so over done by all that it actually is no longer a go-to-hell look

F.E. Castleberry left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 9:47 AM:

@Stet—These horsebit loafers are Aldens.

@Tommy V.—The quote from Making the Grade is tongue-in-cheek.  Determine your own level of appropriateness in social situations.  This article isn’t just about going sockless in the summer…but spring and fall.  That’s where it shapes my sense of style.

@Cameron—I keep shoe trees in my shoes when I’m not wearing them in order to maintain their shape and absorb the moisture from my feet.  In the case that I’ll be doing alot of walking, I’ll utilize a low profile loafer sock.

Stet left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 9:35 AM:

What brand of shoes are those?  They accomplish the sockless look quite well…

christian left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 9:33 AM:

I’m not wearing any socks to my own wedding this fall :)

Dennis left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 9:30 AM:

loved this article, i refuse to wear socks outside of work and the ski slope.

Kionon left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 9:10 AM:

Read this on the Brooks Brothers site. And agree completely!

Glenn Elliott left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 8:43 AM:

“Like”

CC left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 8:28 AM:

Fred - great piece.  I love it.  Thank you.  The only socks I like are the Boston Red Sox.

bucephalus left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 7:52 AM:

There’s nothing wrong with the sockless look if that’s what you like and as long as you’re not in a formal situation.

Tommy V. left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 7:48 AM:

Just to be clear, Fred: the only occasion you wouldn’t want to be telling those around you, “go to hell” would be your own wedding?

I’m all for going sockless in summertime while in a casual setting but there are many other situations that call for sobriety in uniform out of respect for others. Rebelling against convention by flashing my hairy ankles is just not appropriate in any and all social/professional settings.

Cameron left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 7:33 AM:

What have you found to be the best shoe and foot care regimen since you go sockless?

Paul left a comment on 6/7/2011 at 7:30 AM:

I feel like every men’s fashion magazine spread/advertisement/catalogue that I pick up shows bare ankles..with everything from shorts to suits and lace ups.